Subsitute School Teaching.?

Question

I will begin substitute school teaching this week for the first time after a 31 year career as a manager in the warehouse distribution business.

I'm looking for tips on classroom management.

Answer 1

Hey Ricardo,

I have done this. When the kids come in the room, say hi, ask their name, get familiar with each child as they walk in. Say their name over and over (in your mind). Everyone wants their name to be the most important name in the world - you can gain their attention if you can do that.

Then capture their brains - that one is up to you. Challenge them to something, show them something you know, Talk to them briefly - substitutes are not really going to accomplish too much of the lesson unless you can do that first.

Of course, I taught Jr. High, High, and Elementary - and my favorite is Jr. High. You cannot mess up there or you are in trouble. Remember you are in control. If you yell, you lost.

Answer 2

First, know the regulations and procedures for the school you are in. Ask for a student handbook, if you need. Whenever possible, get to the school early enough to read the instructions the teacher has left (they love to leave a thousand or so pages of worksheets). Follow the instructions to a tee. Greet students as they enter the classroom. As soon as the bell rings, get busy. The less 'free time' a class has, the less discipline problems you'll encounter. At the end of the day, have the last class pick up trash and straighten chairs. Turn the light off and close the door. The most important advice I can give is to be FIRM with the students, not confrontational. Good luck. I betcha you'll love it!

Answer 3

Although the questions and answers are about university-level classes the forums at Chronicle of Higher Education [http://chronicle.com/jobs/] have a world of practical information. I would also check out the web and the education section of your Public Library as there are guides and books on the topic. The district should have provided you with general guidelines for classroom expectations and these can give you ideas as well. Finally, as the "new Kid" ask the more seasoned teachers for help and advice - they will have info specific to your school -plus you will have acquired a support group. Good luck -and remember, you always know more than your students.